New farm diesel poses a serious risk for fire and explosion

  • July 26, 2013
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Due to a change in EPA regulations, the petroleum industry is producing Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (commonly called ULSD) fuel. While this may be a cleaner burning fuel and will improve air quality, it also introduces a new safety risk for those who use the product. The new diesel fuel has an increased risk for fire and explosion. “This is especially a concern for those who use satellite fueling stations like those on farm trucks, pipeline and construction crews,” said Dee Jepsen, Ohio State University Extension Agricultural Safety and Health Leader. How is this fuel different? The reduced amount of sulfur in the diesel also decreases the fuel’s conductivity, which in turn increases its ability to store static electricity. Static charges can build up in ULSD fuel while it is being pumped through the fuel delivery system. What should you do to reduce the risk of fire and explosion? All fuel systems need to be properly grounded and bonded. This includes the machine you are refueling, the fuel supply tank, the transfer pump, the transfer hose and nozzles. A grounded fuel delivery system is one that connects to the earth that allows static and electrical charges to dissipate. Most farm trucks and satellite fuel tanks have rubber tires to allow for grounding. However, bed liners and other mediums between the tank and the rubber tires cause a disconnect to the earth, and results in an un-grounded system. A bonded fuel delivery system is one that has an unbroken connection between all components. Using this new fuel, persons are now required to connect a wire from the fuel tanker to the machine it is refueling to equalize the static electric potential between the two units. This practice is commonly done for airplanes and boats during their refueling; it is now important for farmers to practice similar safety practices when refueling their field equipment using a satellite fuel tank. It is commonly known that diesel fuel is not as combustible as gasoline. However, diesel is still considered a fuel source and will burn. The new ULSD formulation has a greater potential to be a static ignition hazard. The combination can be deadly if new safety practices are not taken. Be Alert! This is not the same diesel fuel that has been used for years; the same old practices are not sufficient. For additional information about proper grounding and bonding practices, consult your local fuel supplier.


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